I absolutely had to have this one--who knows whether poor Ryan is going to be around for the long run in the DC universe, after all?
It's a good-looking figure overall. The costume detailing is nice. He's not too muscular, which is appropriate for the character, who is fit but not buff. I'm not sure the face is quite right, but he does wear a mask so it's hard to be sure.
And if this is an example of the articulation in this series, I've got no qualms about getting more of them. He doesn't turn at the waist, wrists or ankles, but otherwise has a good range of motion for a DC Direct figure--the arms turn out at the shoulders, and the hips bend enough to let him sit fully, which is less common than I'd like.
On the whole I'm quite pleased and would recommend him.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
DC Direct JSA Mr. Terrific Action Figure
This is my first figure from the JSA series (my Power Girl is from Infinite Crisis, I believe), and it's a nice figure overall. I like the character, so I'm happy to have the figure. It looks great (I love Mr. Terrific's costume--so atypically superheroic, so unique!) and the detailing is impressive.
He's not all that posable, although he's not bad. He's got the usual jointing at shoulders, elbows, knees and helps, and the head turns, as do the wrists. The main problem is his stance--his arms and legs are both permanently spread (they don't turn out), which limits what he can do. Wide-spread legs don't have to be a problem in an action figure--many figures have them, for the heroic look this position gives--but since Mr. Terrific doesn't bend at the ankles, he really can only stand in one way. He sits pretty well, though, which is a big consideration around here.
He comes with a set of his little T spheres, four of them attached to a clear ring, a rather nice effect.
So far he is hanging out with Power Girl, awaiting the arrival of more Justice Society-ers.
He's not all that posable, although he's not bad. He's got the usual jointing at shoulders, elbows, knees and helps, and the head turns, as do the wrists. The main problem is his stance--his arms and legs are both permanently spread (they don't turn out), which limits what he can do. Wide-spread legs don't have to be a problem in an action figure--many figures have them, for the heroic look this position gives--but since Mr. Terrific doesn't bend at the ankles, he really can only stand in one way. He sits pretty well, though, which is a big consideration around here.
He comes with a set of his little T spheres, four of them attached to a clear ring, a rather nice effect.
So far he is hanging out with Power Girl, awaiting the arrival of more Justice Society-ers.
Monday, December 29, 2008
DC Direct Justice Green Arrow Action Figure
This is a good-looking Green Arrow. As is usual with this series of figures, I have nothing to complain about with regard to his appearance, and the detailing is impressive. He comes with a bow, a quiver of arrows, and a single arrow.
He's fairly posable for one of Ross's figures--bends at the hips (and sits well), at the knees and elbows. The boots turn, as do the wrists and a point at mid-bicep. And of course the head. (Not the waist, which would have been nice.)
He also goes nicely with the Black Canary from the same series, which is the main reason I got him.
Overall, a good addition to the collection.
He's fairly posable for one of Ross's figures--bends at the hips (and sits well), at the knees and elbows. The boots turn, as do the wrists and a point at mid-bicep. And of course the head. (Not the waist, which would have been nice.)
He also goes nicely with the Black Canary from the same series, which is the main reason I got him.
Overall, a good addition to the collection.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
DC Direct Justice Martian Manhunter Action Figure
I've been wanting a Martian Manhunter figure for a while. When I found out they were making a series based on the Giffen JLA series, I thought I might like that one.
Then I saw a picture of that one. (I think there's one on the DC Direct site if you want to go see what I mean.)
So I got this one. The Alex Ross one.
Omigosh, it is massive. If you dropped it on your toe, it would really hurt. Which is I think appropriate--J'Onn is usually portrayed as a pretty big, impressive guy, and this is a big, impressive figure. Appearance-wise, I have nothing to complain about.
Of course, like most of the figures in the Justice series, it's only minimally posable. I expect that. He can bend at the hips and knees, shoulders and elbows, and his head turns. No waist movement. The boots turn (the right one is actually quite loose, but that's a flaw in this specific figure, not in the design itself). He can't sit because of the cape, and surprisingly he doesn't stand all that well, so I imagine he'll spend a lot of time leaning up against the wall.
On the whole, I'm happy with the figure and it brings me one step closer to completing my Morrison-era JLA grouping. :)
Then I saw a picture of that one. (I think there's one on the DC Direct site if you want to go see what I mean.)
So I got this one. The Alex Ross one.
Omigosh, it is massive. If you dropped it on your toe, it would really hurt. Which is I think appropriate--J'Onn is usually portrayed as a pretty big, impressive guy, and this is a big, impressive figure. Appearance-wise, I have nothing to complain about.
Of course, like most of the figures in the Justice series, it's only minimally posable. I expect that. He can bend at the hips and knees, shoulders and elbows, and his head turns. No waist movement. The boots turn (the right one is actually quite loose, but that's a flaw in this specific figure, not in the design itself). He can't sit because of the cape, and surprisingly he doesn't stand all that well, so I imagine he'll spend a lot of time leaning up against the wall.
On the whole, I'm happy with the figure and it brings me one step closer to completing my Morrison-era JLA grouping. :)
Saturday, December 27, 2008
DC Direct Green Lantern Ganthet and Guardian Action Figures
Since these are so small (there are two of them in the set) I didn't expect a lot of articulation. Actually, I can't really tell how articulated they might be because they're both wearing a soft-plastic caftan that covers them from wrist to ankle. So, practically speaking, you can turn the heads and lift the arms out a bit and that's it.
However, they are truly adorable.
So is Ganthet the only Guardian who was ever provided with a name, then?
However, they are truly adorable.
So is Ganthet the only Guardian who was ever provided with a name, then?
Friday, December 26, 2008
A very Minimates Christmas
The ten-year-old got four two-packs of Iron Man movie Minimates.
The fourteen-year-old got that totally awesome Iron Man set with all the old armors, and three Tony Stark heads including 1970s homeless drunk Tony Stark.
And I, who have never had any interest whatsoever in Minimates before, am now the owner of that Invaders set. I have no idea what I'm going to do with the things, but they sure look good.
The fourteen-year-old got that totally awesome Iron Man set with all the old armors, and three Tony Stark heads including 1970s homeless drunk Tony Stark.
And I, who have never had any interest whatsoever in Minimates before, am now the owner of that Invaders set. I have no idea what I'm going to do with the things, but they sure look good.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Help my find more comic stuff to buy!
Where should I go (online or in trades) to learn more about Red Arrow in his various incarnations. My first thought was trades of the new JLA title but I don't think they've made many yet, and I'm not sure that's the best source anyway.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Heroic holidays
So we had a few friends over this weekend, and the kids exchanged some gifts.
The ten-year-old gave the fourteen-year-old that set of Avengers Minimates, the original group including Ant-Man and the Wasp. She likes them but says that they don't seem as sturdy as some of the others (in particular, Wasp's wings are problematic).
The fourteen-year-old gave the ten-year-old and her friend Minimates of themselves. It was all her own idea--she got several other figures that had the right hair, or clothes that could be turned into something the girls already owned, and put them together alont with custom-made boxes. They were thrilled (including the non-comic-reading friend) and spent the rest of the day playing with the other Minimates and giving themselves superpowers.
The ten-year-old gave the fourteen-year-old that set of Avengers Minimates, the original group including Ant-Man and the Wasp. She likes them but says that they don't seem as sturdy as some of the others (in particular, Wasp's wings are problematic).
The fourteen-year-old gave the ten-year-old and her friend Minimates of themselves. It was all her own idea--she got several other figures that had the right hair, or clothes that could be turned into something the girls already owned, and put them together alont with custom-made boxes. They were thrilled (including the non-comic-reading friend) and spent the rest of the day playing with the other Minimates and giving themselves superpowers.
Monday, December 22, 2008
One reason I'm not planning to see the movie
You know, putting The Spirit in a black suit is like putting Captain America in red, white and green. It's just wrong.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Sacrilege!
You know I love Nick Fury, but I have absolutely no desire to read Secret Warriors so far. I suppose I can always get the trade eventually if it turns out to be decent.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
What I Want: The March 09 Marvel Solicitations
AVENGERS/INVADERS #9
Picking up from the jaw-dropping events of Avengers/Invaders #8, our heroes find themselves back in time, with the fate of the very world on their shoulders. Disguised as the heroes of the golden past, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Spider-Woman, Ms. Marvel and Luke Cage now face Nazis, the power of the Cosmic Cube and the Red Skull... Avengers Assemble
Well, I'm not a big fan of the Cosmic Cube--it's rare that it's used well--but I've been liking this story so far.
CAPTAIN AMERICA #48
The New Captain America faces the crimes of his past as the Winter Soldier as the Sub-Mariner and the Black Widow struggle to stop a new foe from unleashing a deadly attack on the world!
Sounds like a good story, and it's always good to see Namor.
RUNAWAYS #8
Evil shock-jock Val Rhymin’ shows LA that he’s not just a radio host—he’s also an uber-powerful sorcerer! But it’s the fact that he’s Chase’s boss that gets the Runaways involved. Can they save their teammate? Does he even want to be saved?
The fourteen-year-old, who wanted this book in the first place, is not enjoying the art, so I will ask her whether she wants to continue with it.
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #588
This is the big one! The results are in, the masks are off and Spider-Man might just go down forever! With the secret of Menace revealed and the identity of the Spider-Tracer killer brought to light, the world of Peter Parker, Harry Osborn, Lily Hollister, Carlie Cooper and Vin Gonzales will never be the same! Questions you’ve asked since Spider-Man first entered his Brand New Day will be answered. But who will be left standing to pick up the pieces...and how does it involve Norman Osborn? This one’s a can’t miss, so be there for the conclusion of CHARACTER ASSASSINATION! By Marc Guggenheim and John Romita, Jr.
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #589
CHARACTER ASSASSINATION may be over, but the troubles keep coming as Spidey's old nemesis THE SPOT returns deadlier than ever! Wait. Did we just use "The Spot" and "deadlier" in the same sentence? You better believe it -- with his teleportation powers, he's poised to make a name for himself as an unstoppable killer for hire, and the only thing standing between him and his latest target is your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man!
Far as I know, the kid still wants this one.
NEW AVENGERS #51
WHO IS THE NEW SORCERER SUPREME? Doctor Strange has failed as the Master of the Mystic Arts and all the other mystic characters are the heir apparent. Strange comes to the New Avengers for help as the mystic battle royale begins. Plus, how can the Avengers trust Spider-Man if he won't take his mask off?
Y'know, the Avengers did all right for years without knowing the secret identities of every member.
MIGHTY AVENGERS #23
"Earth's Mightiest Part 3 of 3"
"The Last Knight on Earth"
How can the Mighty Avengers save all of reality from one of their greatest foes... when they can't even stop fighting each other? To survive their first trial by fire, lines will be crossed, ideals will be compromised, and not every hero will make the cut. You better read this issue of DARK REIGN, guys. Why? Because this one's going to change the Marvel landscape! Literally!
I'm really interested in seeing what the post-Bendis Mighty Avengers is going to be like.
DARK AVENGERS #3
The phenom that is the Dark Avengers continues. BATTLEGROUND LATVERIA as Morgana Le Fey attacks with all the power at her disposal. Meanwhile these new Avengers discover all the dirt and hidden secrets of their notorious pasts.
I'm really not at all sure I'll be keeping this one on the list. The New Avengers and the Mighty Avangers--they're both still Avengers teams. This one seems like it might not be. But I'll check it out.
NEW AVENGERS: THE REUNION #1 (of 4)
In the wake of SECRET INVASION, Mockingbird is alive and has returned to Earth after being held captive by the Skrulls. Ronin, her estranged husband, volunteers to help her adjust to her new life as a member of the new Avengers, but some old wounds run too deep. And what deadly secret did she bring back with her that could tear them, and the world, apart once more? It's high-octane action and intrigue as the Mr. & Mrs. Smith of the Marvel Universe take on one of the biggest threats in the world...and each other!
Certainly I'll get this one.
DEADPOOL #8
“MAGNUM OPUS,” PART 1 OF 4
SPECIAL CROSSOVER WITH THUNDERBOLTS! Deadpool unleashes his most insane plan yet: a full-on assault against Norman Osborn! As Deadpool storms his way to the top of Avengers Tower, Osborn is forced to pull out all the stops to save his own skin — and that means deploying the brand new Thunderbolts! Plug your ears, kids — this is gonna be loud!
THUNDERBOLTS #130
“MAGNUM OPUS,” PART 2 OF 4 -- CROSSOVER WITH DEADPOOL
Everyone’s favorite Merc with a Mouth has the Thunderbolts in his crosshairs – but don’t expect this murderer’s row of butt-kickers to lay down! The nastiest fight of ’09 has begun, and you’ve got the front row seat for all the ultra violence
See, this is what a crossover is supposed to do--get someone to try a comic they've never read in their life! (I.e. me and Thunderbolts.)
MS. MARVEL #37
It's a throwdown in Hong Kong against the mysteriously powered Ghazi as Ms. Marvel finally discovers the origin of her mysterious enemy. However, Carol has been keeping a secret connected to the Dark Reign concerning Norman Osborn and it may just mean she won't survive the fight.
Remains readable, though not exciting.
CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI13 #11
“VAMPIRE STATE”
Dracula continues his plan to take the United Kingdom for vampires and monsters. Who is the traitor in the ranks of MI13? Can Spitfire possibly deny what she is? Can Captain Britain save his nation? Find out here!
Not a big fan of comic-book Dracula (movie Dracula is something else altogether) but I like this book.
MARVEL ADVENTURES THE AVENGERS #34
THE SAND AND FURY: It's 1942 and Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos are on leave in London. No, wait, it's 2009 and the Avengers are shooing away a pterodactyl from the Tower of London. But, hold on, what's a pterodactyl doing in London anyway? Geez, never mind, because now it looks like it's about 4000 BC, and Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos are teaming up with the Avengers in order to take down a madman with a rather personal take on time.
For the nine-year-old, of course. The fourteen-year-old rarely reads it. I, on the other hand, almost always do. :)
DEADPOOL: GAMES OF DEATH
"GAME$ OF DEATH"
"Pain Factor" -- the reality TV game show so controversial, it's been banned around the world! Today, eleven desperate men will travel to a desert island to compete in a series of outlandish challenges that will leave one of them rich and the rest of them dead. Among the competitors, a certain "Merc with a Mouth," who's been hired to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a millionaire's son. The trail ended here for Junior, but will it for Deadpool? Not if he has anything to say about it. After all, nothing brings out Wade's competitive streak like cold, hard ca--I mean, justice.
Ooooh, more Deadpool!
YOUNG X-MEN #12
Dust fights for her life and the team is in the fight of theirs. Everything comes full circle in their final confrontation with the X-Baddie who started it all: Donald Pierce.
Actually, I need to inquire of the family as to whether this one stays on the list. I like it all right, and I usually read it, but I wouldn't get it just for me.
FRANKLIN RICHARDS: NOT-SO-SECRET INVASION DIGEST
Move over, Mr. Fantastic – the progeny of Marvel's First Family has a brand-new digest! Franklin Richards returns with this brand-new collection. Join Franklin and his robot pal H.E.R.B.I.E. as they head into Reed’s lab for all kinds of fantastic fun, amazing adventures and more trouble than you can shake an Ultimate Nullifier at! This compilation is bound to bring out the kid in every reader! Collecting FRANKLIN RICHARDS: SPRING BREAK, NOT-SO-SECRET INVASION, SUMMER SMACKDOWN and SONS OF GENIUSES.
For the nine-year-old, it'll be a nice surprise for her in a few months.
Picking up from the jaw-dropping events of Avengers/Invaders #8, our heroes find themselves back in time, with the fate of the very world on their shoulders. Disguised as the heroes of the golden past, Iron Man, Spider-Man, Wolverine, Spider-Woman, Ms. Marvel and Luke Cage now face Nazis, the power of the Cosmic Cube and the Red Skull... Avengers Assemble
Well, I'm not a big fan of the Cosmic Cube--it's rare that it's used well--but I've been liking this story so far.
CAPTAIN AMERICA #48
The New Captain America faces the crimes of his past as the Winter Soldier as the Sub-Mariner and the Black Widow struggle to stop a new foe from unleashing a deadly attack on the world!
Sounds like a good story, and it's always good to see Namor.
RUNAWAYS #8
Evil shock-jock Val Rhymin’ shows LA that he’s not just a radio host—he’s also an uber-powerful sorcerer! But it’s the fact that he’s Chase’s boss that gets the Runaways involved. Can they save their teammate? Does he even want to be saved?
The fourteen-year-old, who wanted this book in the first place, is not enjoying the art, so I will ask her whether she wants to continue with it.
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #588
This is the big one! The results are in, the masks are off and Spider-Man might just go down forever! With the secret of Menace revealed and the identity of the Spider-Tracer killer brought to light, the world of Peter Parker, Harry Osborn, Lily Hollister, Carlie Cooper and Vin Gonzales will never be the same! Questions you’ve asked since Spider-Man first entered his Brand New Day will be answered. But who will be left standing to pick up the pieces...and how does it involve Norman Osborn? This one’s a can’t miss, so be there for the conclusion of CHARACTER ASSASSINATION! By Marc Guggenheim and John Romita, Jr.
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #589
CHARACTER ASSASSINATION may be over, but the troubles keep coming as Spidey's old nemesis THE SPOT returns deadlier than ever! Wait. Did we just use "The Spot" and "deadlier" in the same sentence? You better believe it -- with his teleportation powers, he's poised to make a name for himself as an unstoppable killer for hire, and the only thing standing between him and his latest target is your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man!
Far as I know, the kid still wants this one.
NEW AVENGERS #51
WHO IS THE NEW SORCERER SUPREME? Doctor Strange has failed as the Master of the Mystic Arts and all the other mystic characters are the heir apparent. Strange comes to the New Avengers for help as the mystic battle royale begins. Plus, how can the Avengers trust Spider-Man if he won't take his mask off?
Y'know, the Avengers did all right for years without knowing the secret identities of every member.
MIGHTY AVENGERS #23
"Earth's Mightiest Part 3 of 3"
"The Last Knight on Earth"
How can the Mighty Avengers save all of reality from one of their greatest foes... when they can't even stop fighting each other? To survive their first trial by fire, lines will be crossed, ideals will be compromised, and not every hero will make the cut. You better read this issue of DARK REIGN, guys. Why? Because this one's going to change the Marvel landscape! Literally!
I'm really interested in seeing what the post-Bendis Mighty Avengers is going to be like.
DARK AVENGERS #3
The phenom that is the Dark Avengers continues. BATTLEGROUND LATVERIA as Morgana Le Fey attacks with all the power at her disposal. Meanwhile these new Avengers discover all the dirt and hidden secrets of their notorious pasts.
I'm really not at all sure I'll be keeping this one on the list. The New Avengers and the Mighty Avangers--they're both still Avengers teams. This one seems like it might not be. But I'll check it out.
NEW AVENGERS: THE REUNION #1 (of 4)
In the wake of SECRET INVASION, Mockingbird is alive and has returned to Earth after being held captive by the Skrulls. Ronin, her estranged husband, volunteers to help her adjust to her new life as a member of the new Avengers, but some old wounds run too deep. And what deadly secret did she bring back with her that could tear them, and the world, apart once more? It's high-octane action and intrigue as the Mr. & Mrs. Smith of the Marvel Universe take on one of the biggest threats in the world...and each other!
Certainly I'll get this one.
DEADPOOL #8
“MAGNUM OPUS,” PART 1 OF 4
SPECIAL CROSSOVER WITH THUNDERBOLTS! Deadpool unleashes his most insane plan yet: a full-on assault against Norman Osborn! As Deadpool storms his way to the top of Avengers Tower, Osborn is forced to pull out all the stops to save his own skin — and that means deploying the brand new Thunderbolts! Plug your ears, kids — this is gonna be loud!
THUNDERBOLTS #130
“MAGNUM OPUS,” PART 2 OF 4 -- CROSSOVER WITH DEADPOOL
Everyone’s favorite Merc with a Mouth has the Thunderbolts in his crosshairs – but don’t expect this murderer’s row of butt-kickers to lay down! The nastiest fight of ’09 has begun, and you’ve got the front row seat for all the ultra violence
See, this is what a crossover is supposed to do--get someone to try a comic they've never read in their life! (I.e. me and Thunderbolts.)
MS. MARVEL #37
It's a throwdown in Hong Kong against the mysteriously powered Ghazi as Ms. Marvel finally discovers the origin of her mysterious enemy. However, Carol has been keeping a secret connected to the Dark Reign concerning Norman Osborn and it may just mean she won't survive the fight.
Remains readable, though not exciting.
CAPTAIN BRITAIN AND MI13 #11
“VAMPIRE STATE”
Dracula continues his plan to take the United Kingdom for vampires and monsters. Who is the traitor in the ranks of MI13? Can Spitfire possibly deny what she is? Can Captain Britain save his nation? Find out here!
Not a big fan of comic-book Dracula (movie Dracula is something else altogether) but I like this book.
MARVEL ADVENTURES THE AVENGERS #34
THE SAND AND FURY: It's 1942 and Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos are on leave in London. No, wait, it's 2009 and the Avengers are shooing away a pterodactyl from the Tower of London. But, hold on, what's a pterodactyl doing in London anyway? Geez, never mind, because now it looks like it's about 4000 BC, and Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos are teaming up with the Avengers in order to take down a madman with a rather personal take on time.
For the nine-year-old, of course. The fourteen-year-old rarely reads it. I, on the other hand, almost always do. :)
DEADPOOL: GAMES OF DEATH
"GAME$ OF DEATH"
"Pain Factor" -- the reality TV game show so controversial, it's been banned around the world! Today, eleven desperate men will travel to a desert island to compete in a series of outlandish challenges that will leave one of them rich and the rest of them dead. Among the competitors, a certain "Merc with a Mouth," who's been hired to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a millionaire's son. The trail ended here for Junior, but will it for Deadpool? Not if he has anything to say about it. After all, nothing brings out Wade's competitive streak like cold, hard ca--I mean, justice.
Ooooh, more Deadpool!
YOUNG X-MEN #12
Dust fights for her life and the team is in the fight of theirs. Everything comes full circle in their final confrontation with the X-Baddie who started it all: Donald Pierce.
Actually, I need to inquire of the family as to whether this one stays on the list. I like it all right, and I usually read it, but I wouldn't get it just for me.
FRANKLIN RICHARDS: NOT-SO-SECRET INVASION DIGEST
Move over, Mr. Fantastic – the progeny of Marvel's First Family has a brand-new digest! Franklin Richards returns with this brand-new collection. Join Franklin and his robot pal H.E.R.B.I.E. as they head into Reed’s lab for all kinds of fantastic fun, amazing adventures and more trouble than you can shake an Ultimate Nullifier at! This compilation is bound to bring out the kid in every reader! Collecting FRANKLIN RICHARDS: SPRING BREAK, NOT-SO-SECRET INVASION, SUMMER SMACKDOWN and SONS OF GENIUSES.
For the nine-year-old, it'll be a nice surprise for her in a few months.
Friday, December 19, 2008
What I Want: The March '09 DC Solicitations
BATMAN: BATTLE FOR THE COWL #1
"Batman: R.I.P." and FINAL CRISIS saw the end of Batman. Now, months following the disappearance of her protector, Gotham City sits at a precipice and it may be too far gone for Nightwing, Robin, Commissioner Gordon and the rest of the city’s heroes to save the day. Amid the fires, rioting, looting and gang warfare, one question rings out from the souls of Gotham’s desperate citizens: Where is Batman?
With guest-stars galore, the destruction of a sacred Gotham City institution and an ending that will have everyone talking, this 3-issue miniseries event written and drawn by Tony Daniel (The Tenth) features the battle to take on the Mantle of the Bat. Who has earned the right? Who thinks they deserve it? Robin? Nightwing? Jason Todd? Two-Face? Catwoman? Batgirl? Who will ultimately win the BATTLE FOR THE COWL?
This is one I've actually been waiting for.
ORACLE #1
Part 1 of 3-part story that will change the life of Oracle forever! Barbara Gordon, after disbanding the Birds of Prey, returns to Gotham City as a recluse only to lose herself to her Oracle identity entirely. But when the evil Calculator seeks the remnants of the Anti-Life Equation to save the life of his daughter, Oracle will be caught in the crossfire, and Barbara Gordon will pay the ultimate price!
Now, is this a 3-part mini, or a new ongoing that starts with a 3-parter?
GREEN LANTERN CORPS #34
The prelude to “Blackest Night” continues as the “War of Light” heats up. Mongul commands Daxam and their Superman-like citizens plus the entire Sinestro Corps. Can Arisia and a small resistance of Daxamites defeat the fear-bearing Corps with Sodam Yat out of the picture?
Haven't been disappointed with this one yet. I'm even starting to care about Sodam Yat, just a little bit.
GREEN LANTERN #40
“Agent Orange” part 2! The prelude to “The Blackest Night” continues as the war of light explodes across the Vega System. It's the Green Lantern Corps vs. the bizarre Orange Lantern Corps led by the most disgusting, filthiest, vilest being in the universe. But now that Agent Orange has been disturbed, what does that mean to the rest of the universe? Plus, John Stewart battles alongside his newest ally...Fatality?
Oookay, I guess it's time to pick up the regular GL title again for a while. John Stewart's in it!
JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #25
The “Black Adam and Isis” epic concludes here! With Billy Batson banished from the Rock of Eternity, the Justice Society calls upon an old friend to help in the battle against the Black Marvel family and stop Black Adam and Isis once and for all!
You know, I just buy this one and have confidence that I'll continue to enjoy it. So far, so good.
SECRET SIX #7
It’s the big finale of the first arc and a punishing battle royal, Gotham City style, as the bloody, ragged remains of the Secret Six fight their way through throngs of Gotham City heroes and villains. And when the dust finally settles, the man pulling the strings of this whole affair will finally be revealed! Guest stars, betrayals and bad taste galore in this powerful issue!
Bad taste is always good.
TITANS #11
Shaken by the loss of one of their teammates, the Titans attempt to regroup and move on. But they discover that their problems aren't even close to over as their past comes back to haunt them in this prelude to the major “Deathtrap” crossover with TEEN TITANS starting next month!
Still getting this one.
WONDER WOMAN #30
“Rise of the Olympian” Part 5! Created by Zeus himself, the Olympian is charged with spreading the message of peace and unity throughout the world – by any means necessary. Is a battered and bruised Wonder Woman up to the challenge of stopping his brutal ways? And does the world even want her to? All this plus a surprising revelation about the true origin of Genocide, the creature that beat Wonder Woman!
And this one as well. Not quite ready to give up yet.
SCOOBY-DOO #142
Zombies, zombies, zombies! The gang’s got their work cut out for them, with two tales of zombie mayhem. Plus, a group of rival mystery-solvers falls on their tails!
For the nine-year-old, of course.
JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL SERIES 2 ACTION FIGURES
From the pages of the much-loved ’80s series from Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis and Kevin Maguire, these four characters round out the original incarnation of the Justice League International! Each figure features multiple points of articulation and a base. 4-color clamshell blister card packaging. INCLUDES: Fire • 6.75” h
I might want Fire. Mainly to go with Ice, which I didn't pre-order but which I am determined to have.
"Batman: R.I.P." and FINAL CRISIS saw the end of Batman. Now, months following the disappearance of her protector, Gotham City sits at a precipice and it may be too far gone for Nightwing, Robin, Commissioner Gordon and the rest of the city’s heroes to save the day. Amid the fires, rioting, looting and gang warfare, one question rings out from the souls of Gotham’s desperate citizens: Where is Batman?
With guest-stars galore, the destruction of a sacred Gotham City institution and an ending that will have everyone talking, this 3-issue miniseries event written and drawn by Tony Daniel (The Tenth) features the battle to take on the Mantle of the Bat. Who has earned the right? Who thinks they deserve it? Robin? Nightwing? Jason Todd? Two-Face? Catwoman? Batgirl? Who will ultimately win the BATTLE FOR THE COWL?
This is one I've actually been waiting for.
ORACLE #1
Part 1 of 3-part story that will change the life of Oracle forever! Barbara Gordon, after disbanding the Birds of Prey, returns to Gotham City as a recluse only to lose herself to her Oracle identity entirely. But when the evil Calculator seeks the remnants of the Anti-Life Equation to save the life of his daughter, Oracle will be caught in the crossfire, and Barbara Gordon will pay the ultimate price!
Now, is this a 3-part mini, or a new ongoing that starts with a 3-parter?
GREEN LANTERN CORPS #34
The prelude to “Blackest Night” continues as the “War of Light” heats up. Mongul commands Daxam and their Superman-like citizens plus the entire Sinestro Corps. Can Arisia and a small resistance of Daxamites defeat the fear-bearing Corps with Sodam Yat out of the picture?
Haven't been disappointed with this one yet. I'm even starting to care about Sodam Yat, just a little bit.
GREEN LANTERN #40
“Agent Orange” part 2! The prelude to “The Blackest Night” continues as the war of light explodes across the Vega System. It's the Green Lantern Corps vs. the bizarre Orange Lantern Corps led by the most disgusting, filthiest, vilest being in the universe. But now that Agent Orange has been disturbed, what does that mean to the rest of the universe? Plus, John Stewart battles alongside his newest ally...Fatality?
Oookay, I guess it's time to pick up the regular GL title again for a while. John Stewart's in it!
JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #25
The “Black Adam and Isis” epic concludes here! With Billy Batson banished from the Rock of Eternity, the Justice Society calls upon an old friend to help in the battle against the Black Marvel family and stop Black Adam and Isis once and for all!
You know, I just buy this one and have confidence that I'll continue to enjoy it. So far, so good.
SECRET SIX #7
It’s the big finale of the first arc and a punishing battle royal, Gotham City style, as the bloody, ragged remains of the Secret Six fight their way through throngs of Gotham City heroes and villains. And when the dust finally settles, the man pulling the strings of this whole affair will finally be revealed! Guest stars, betrayals and bad taste galore in this powerful issue!
Bad taste is always good.
TITANS #11
Shaken by the loss of one of their teammates, the Titans attempt to regroup and move on. But they discover that their problems aren't even close to over as their past comes back to haunt them in this prelude to the major “Deathtrap” crossover with TEEN TITANS starting next month!
Still getting this one.
WONDER WOMAN #30
“Rise of the Olympian” Part 5! Created by Zeus himself, the Olympian is charged with spreading the message of peace and unity throughout the world – by any means necessary. Is a battered and bruised Wonder Woman up to the challenge of stopping his brutal ways? And does the world even want her to? All this plus a surprising revelation about the true origin of Genocide, the creature that beat Wonder Woman!
And this one as well. Not quite ready to give up yet.
SCOOBY-DOO #142
Zombies, zombies, zombies! The gang’s got their work cut out for them, with two tales of zombie mayhem. Plus, a group of rival mystery-solvers falls on their tails!
For the nine-year-old, of course.
JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL SERIES 2 ACTION FIGURES
From the pages of the much-loved ’80s series from Keith Giffen, J.M. DeMatteis and Kevin Maguire, these four characters round out the original incarnation of the Justice League International! Each figure features multiple points of articulation and a base. 4-color clamshell blister card packaging. INCLUDES: Fire • 6.75” h
I might want Fire. Mainly to go with Ice, which I didn't pre-order but which I am determined to have.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
If I absolutely positively had to get rid of five comics:
This one is difficult, because I've actually cut most of the books that didn't interest me, as well as some that just didn't interest me enough. Of what's left? Well, these are the comics that I do not currently intend to drop, but which tend to be among the last ones I read every month. So in no particular order:
Titans. I'm not hating it, but it hasn't captured my interest like I thought it might. I'll give it some more time but it's definitely in the bottom 5.
Ms. Marvel. Carol just hasn't been all that interesting lately. I have a nostalgic fondness for the character, but that only goes so far.
Wonder Woman. I hate to say it, I really, really hate to say it, but WW just isn't one of my favorite characters. I'd like her to be. I enjoy her a lot in a group setting. And I kind of feel like I "should" support her. And yet, as I've said before, on her own she often leaves me cold. This is easily the best I've ever seen her title be, but even so, it's just not all that fun of a book for me.
Mighty Avengers and New Avengers. Not because I don't like them, but because there are other ongoings on my list that I get more pleasure from. This is partly due to these titles being in the middle of two massive events in a row, and my sense that they've been serving that purpose rather than telling their own stories. I don't hate them, don't even dislike them, but there's just not a lot to them for me a lot of the time.
Titans. I'm not hating it, but it hasn't captured my interest like I thought it might. I'll give it some more time but it's definitely in the bottom 5.
Ms. Marvel. Carol just hasn't been all that interesting lately. I have a nostalgic fondness for the character, but that only goes so far.
Wonder Woman. I hate to say it, I really, really hate to say it, but WW just isn't one of my favorite characters. I'd like her to be. I enjoy her a lot in a group setting. And I kind of feel like I "should" support her. And yet, as I've said before, on her own she often leaves me cold. This is easily the best I've ever seen her title be, but even so, it's just not all that fun of a book for me.
Mighty Avengers and New Avengers. Not because I don't like them, but because there are other ongoings on my list that I get more pleasure from. This is partly due to these titles being in the middle of two massive events in a row, and my sense that they've been serving that purpose rather than telling their own stories. I don't hate them, don't even dislike them, but there's just not a lot to them for me a lot of the time.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
If I absolutely positively had to limit myself to five comic books
Now, I don't buy a ton of books compared to a lot of people, but I do buy well over five titles. So...if, for whatever reason, I could only have five of them:
1. Captain America. This one won't surprise any of you who have read my blog even sporadically. It's not as head-and-shoulders above the rest as it would have been, say, a year ago, but it's stil at the top of the list. Good stories, good art, generally respectful treatment of the characters, and plenty of surprises.
2. Green Lantern Corps. This is my GL book of choice. (I tried the regular GL book for a while but Hal just doesn't interest me to the point of $2.99/month.)
3. Secret Six. It's early days for this one but I fully expect it to remain as much fun as this group has been in the past.
4. Deadpool. Ditto.
5. Avengers/Invaders. I hesitate to put this one on the list because it's not an ongoing, but it is a year-long mini and that's longer than some ongoings last. I retain a great fondness for the Invaders, and I've been enjoying this new take on them.
I will say that, a few weeks ago, both Birds of Prey and She-Hulk would have been on the list.
1. Captain America. This one won't surprise any of you who have read my blog even sporadically. It's not as head-and-shoulders above the rest as it would have been, say, a year ago, but it's stil at the top of the list. Good stories, good art, generally respectful treatment of the characters, and plenty of surprises.
2. Green Lantern Corps. This is my GL book of choice. (I tried the regular GL book for a while but Hal just doesn't interest me to the point of $2.99/month.)
3. Secret Six. It's early days for this one but I fully expect it to remain as much fun as this group has been in the past.
4. Deadpool. Ditto.
5. Avengers/Invaders. I hesitate to put this one on the list because it's not an ongoing, but it is a year-long mini and that's longer than some ongoings last. I retain a great fondness for the Invaders, and I've been enjoying this new take on them.
I will say that, a few weeks ago, both Birds of Prey and She-Hulk would have been on the list.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
DC Universe Classics Wonder Woman Action Figure
Yes, we already had a Wonder Woman. Yes, she's gorgeous, and reasonably playable for a DC Direct figure. However, this one was simply irresistible. What we will do with two Wonder Women, I have no idea, but we've got them.
First of all, she has every bit of mobility that the other figures in this line have, which means she can strike almost any pose you like. She has limited head movement, due to her hair, but that's not unusual for action figures. (The only long-haired figure I can think of offhand whose head moves well is Marvel Legends Black Widow, and they accomplished that by giving her--as the fourteen-year-old puts it--"that weird neck thing.) She has: bends at elbow and knee and abkle, arms and hips turn out waist turns and bends, turns at bicep and mid-thigh. She doesn't stand all that well, but she can do it with a little work on your part.
She looks good, too. The costume is nice. The lasso is permanently attached, which I actually prefer because the other WW figure lost hers within a week of her arrival. I very much like the face with its resolute expression. In fact, my only complaint about the way this figure looks is that she's awfully leggy, which I think contributes to her difficulty standing on her own.
I'm going to write a separate paragraph about the arms. My main complaint about this line has been the arms used on the female characters--we've got a Batgirl (Cass) and a Harley Quinn, and both of them have narrow shoulders and skinny arms, not only making them a bit disproportionate but looking not at all muscular enough to do the jobs they do. Wonder Woman, however, has some muscles. I hope that'll become the standard for this series.
First of all, she has every bit of mobility that the other figures in this line have, which means she can strike almost any pose you like. She has limited head movement, due to her hair, but that's not unusual for action figures. (The only long-haired figure I can think of offhand whose head moves well is Marvel Legends Black Widow, and they accomplished that by giving her--as the fourteen-year-old puts it--"that weird neck thing.) She has: bends at elbow and knee and abkle, arms and hips turn out waist turns and bends, turns at bicep and mid-thigh. She doesn't stand all that well, but she can do it with a little work on your part.
She looks good, too. The costume is nice. The lasso is permanently attached, which I actually prefer because the other WW figure lost hers within a week of her arrival. I very much like the face with its resolute expression. In fact, my only complaint about the way this figure looks is that she's awfully leggy, which I think contributes to her difficulty standing on her own.
I'm going to write a separate paragraph about the arms. My main complaint about this line has been the arms used on the female characters--we've got a Batgirl (Cass) and a Harley Quinn, and both of them have narrow shoulders and skinny arms, not only making them a bit disproportionate but looking not at all muscular enough to do the jobs they do. Wonder Woman, however, has some muscles. I hope that'll become the standard for this series.
Monday, December 15, 2008
DC Universe Classics Cyborg Action Figure
I really have been impressed overall with these figures--they tend to strike a nice balance between appearance and playability. In comparison, the Marvel Legends have usually been tremendously playable but not particularly attractive, and the DC Direct figures are usually amazingly pretty but nearly immobile. They also seem to make a good mix of major and obscure characters, which is wonderful. And they don't have permanent snarls (something I always disliked about many of the Marvel Legends). Currently, I'd say that this line is pretty close to my ideal for an action figure.
Cyborg is as nicely done as the other figures I have seen. He has a good range of motion and includes all the jointing typical for this series--the head turns nicely, the knees and elbows and ankles bend, the hips and shoulders turn out, he turns and bends at the waist, and he has those surprisingly useful turns at bicep and mid-thigh. He also stands on his own with little difficulty and sits well. I have absolutely no complaints about the usability of this figure.
He also looks seriously great.
Cyborg spends most of his time hanging out with his fellow Titans, Nightwing and Leg-Fall-Off Girl (DC Direct Donna Troy).
Cyborg is as nicely done as the other figures I have seen. He has a good range of motion and includes all the jointing typical for this series--the head turns nicely, the knees and elbows and ankles bend, the hips and shoulders turn out, he turns and bends at the waist, and he has those surprisingly useful turns at bicep and mid-thigh. He also stands on his own with little difficulty and sits well. I have absolutely no complaints about the usability of this figure.
He also looks seriously great.
Cyborg spends most of his time hanging out with his fellow Titans, Nightwing and Leg-Fall-Off Girl (DC Direct Donna Troy).
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
Writing my letter to Santa now
I want this.
It is one of those books you dream about and wake up disappointed that it doesn't actually exist. Only this time it does.
It is one of those books you dream about and wake up disappointed that it doesn't actually exist. Only this time it does.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Catching up on comic news
I was sorry to hear that Geoff Johns is leaving JSA. Because it's been one of the most consistently good things DC has been putting out over the last few years.
And I was kind of glad to hear that the return of Mockingbird doesn't necessarily mean a return to the Hawkeye-Mockingbird relationship as it was. She's never really appeared apart from that relationship, not really, and it would be nice to see what she's like when it's just her in a story.
And I was kind of glad to hear that the return of Mockingbird doesn't necessarily mean a return to the Hawkeye-Mockingbird relationship as it was. She's never really appeared apart from that relationship, not really, and it would be nice to see what she's like when it's just her in a story.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
No escape
The hype is building for Marvel's Dark Reign. I do respond to hype, not quite to an embarrassing degree but nearly (although I suppose that "at all" would be an embarrassing degree to respond to hype). Dark Reign doesn't really intrigue me much (and what is all this love for Norman Osborne) but I imagine I'll pick it up.
But wow, I'm getting tired. Sure, it all reflects the state of the Marvel Universe--they had the Civil War, and then the Skrulls attacked, and now there's Dark Reign (whatever that may turn out to be) and there's certainly a sense of one thing piling up on another, and of it couldn't get any worse and then it does, and of how the heroes haven't been able to take a rest in how long?
But you know? They're heroes. And they're fighting for their world.
We, on the other hand, are readers. And we don't have nearly that sort of incentive for wanting to keep up this exhausting pace. (And as many have said, it's not very meaningful to break with the status quo when there is no status quo.) We could just leave the universe if it all becomes too much.
I do try to keep that in mind.
Oh Marvel Comics, why can't I quit you?
But wow, I'm getting tired. Sure, it all reflects the state of the Marvel Universe--they had the Civil War, and then the Skrulls attacked, and now there's Dark Reign (whatever that may turn out to be) and there's certainly a sense of one thing piling up on another, and of it couldn't get any worse and then it does, and of how the heroes haven't been able to take a rest in how long?
But you know? They're heroes. And they're fighting for their world.
We, on the other hand, are readers. And we don't have nearly that sort of incentive for wanting to keep up this exhausting pace. (And as many have said, it's not very meaningful to break with the status quo when there is no status quo.) We could just leave the universe if it all becomes too much.
I do try to keep that in mind.
Oh Marvel Comics, why can't I quit you?
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Festive!
In honor of the holiday season, I have decorated my desktop with Green Lantern and Red Arrow.
Monday, December 08, 2008
Hey, it's your fault!
Although I am almost never an "early adopter," eventually I find myself wanting to check out most of the nifty internet thingies that come my way. Blogger. Livejournal. Facebook. LibraryThing. For the most part, I try them for a while and eventually tire of them. (I always have had a rather short attention span.) But sometimes something sticks.
I really didn't expect Blogger to be one of the keepers, and yet I've been Blogger-ing for aboaut 2 1/2 years.
I'd like to attribute it to stick-to-itiveness on my part, but I'm afraid I can't. I'm pretty sure it's due to you guys.
So thanks.
I really didn't expect Blogger to be one of the keepers, and yet I've been Blogger-ing for aboaut 2 1/2 years.
I'd like to attribute it to stick-to-itiveness on my part, but I'm afraid I can't. I'm pretty sure it's due to you guys.
So thanks.
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Seriously, I will.
So...how long do you think until Martian Manhunter returns?
I'll start buying Justice League of America if J'onn comes back and joins.
I'll start buying Justice League of America if J'onn comes back and joins.
Saturday, December 06, 2008
A word of warning
The holidays are nearly upon us, which is lovely, but December is insane around here, so I am giving you fair warning that I am going to be even less likely than usual to write anything that is (a) long, (b) intelligent, or (c) significant.
This has been a public service announcement.
Let the lazy blogging begin!
This has been a public service announcement.
Let the lazy blogging begin!
Friday, December 05, 2008
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Okay, this is neat!
Every so often I see something on the comic news sites that I can't wait to tell the kids about because I know they'll be excited.
This is one of those things: the introduction of Static to the regular DC universe.
I remember when Static Shock was on TV, it was something the kids enjoyed a lot and made a real point of watching. (Actually it has been a while so I'm not entirely sure that the nine-year-old will even remember it. But the fourteen-year-old will.)
So, hey cool!
This is one of those things: the introduction of Static to the regular DC universe.
I remember when Static Shock was on TV, it was something the kids enjoyed a lot and made a real point of watching. (Actually it has been a while so I'm not entirely sure that the nine-year-old will even remember it. But the fourteen-year-old will.)
So, hey cool!
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Addendum to New Cap action figure review.
Okay, problem with this figure? The pouches on the belt break off if you even try to pose the thing. Which makes me cranky.
Monday, December 01, 2008
Actual holiday shopping today
But I didn't leave the house. Watching all that scary Black Friday footage scared me off. So I went online.
So far, Minimates and Lego Batman are on their way.
So far, Minimates and Lego Batman are on their way.
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